Blood Stain Removal

Top 5 Tips for Blood Stain Removal

            A problematic issue faced by almost everyone at some point in time is that of blood stain removal from clothes, upholstered fabrics or rugs.  Unlike many stains, blood has a propensity to quickly bind with the fibers in fabrics; if not cared for properly immediately, it may simply become impossible to remove.  Following these tips may help to save your stained items; returning them to their original condition.

Tip #1:  Treat the stain quickly

            When possible, treat any type of stain immediately.  Doing so will prohibit the ingredients of the staining element from infiltrating the innermost fibers of the material.  In the case of blood, it is always easiest to remove from fabrics while it is still moist.  Blood contains protein, which makes it chemically reactive.  As it dries, it bonds with other elements; especially when exposed to heat and certain other chemicals.  The longer blood is able to penetrate the fabric, the stronger the bond of the stain and the more difficult it will be to remove. 

Tip #2:  Methods for treating the stain

            Treating blood stains must be done correctly the first time.  First, blot as much of the wet blood as possible from the fabric, using an absorbent rag such as cotton, or paper toweling.  Wadding up a piece of the material, place the knot on top of the stain and gently but firmly rock it back and forth over the stain in small movements to avoid spreading the stain.  Also, never rub the stain; this action will only serve to push the stain further into the fibers.  Now, you will need to rinse the remaining blood from the fabric.  Running the fabric under plain cold water is the best method, but when it is not possible, dab the stain with a clean cloth that has been well moistened with either cold water or seltzer water. 

Tip #3:  Pre-treating the remaining stain

            After as much of the blood as possible has been removed, the fabric should be pretreated to further break down the proteins.  The “care” tag on the fabric should be found and read to ensure proper procedure for blood stain removal.  Important note:  if the fabric is one that is dry clean only, do not treat any further, but instead take it to a drycleaner as soon as possible for professional treatment.  For washable fabrics, one of two methods should be used next.  White fabrics can be treated with hydrogen peroxide; color fabrics should be treated with a salt water solution.  Soaking the stained fabric for up to an hour should loosen any remaining protein.  The item can now be washed in its normal manner. 

Tip #4:  Treating dried blood stains

            Dried blood is much more difficult to remove; however, sometimes it is unavoidable.  For a stain that has set into the material, first try soaking it for several hours in cold water to loosen as much of the stain bond as possible.  To any remaining stain, try massaging a mixture of meat tenderizer and cold water into the stain.  Allow the mixture to penetrate the material for up to an hour before brushing away the dried solution and washing normally. 

Tip #5:  When all else fails

            The last resort for stubborn blood stain removal is to use full strength hydrogen peroxide or diluted household ammonia on the fabric; dabbing it on and blotting if off repeatedly until the stain disappears.  In addition, detergents that are labeled as “enzyme” cleaners are very helpful in removing blood in the washing machine.

            Any stain can be frustrating, especially when on your favorite item of clothing.  Blood, however, presents a more difficult challenge.  By following these five tips, the challenge can often be met with success and the item be returned to its original state.